Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff
V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Political.
Empowering Bystanders: A Collective Responsibility
With the festive season approaching, the safeguarding minister has called on bystanders to step in if they see women at risk of being spiked during nights out. The advice encourages people to approach women who may appear vulnerable and ask if they are safe, as long as they feel it is safe to do so.
Jess Phillips, speaking from a Birmingham bar, highlighted the importance of public vigilance, saying, “I’ve intervened many times, and people won’t be offended if you check on their safety.” This aligns with recommendations from the UN that urge communities to take active roles in ending violence against women.
The Government's Commitment to Safer Nights Out
Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently convened a high-level meeting with police chiefs, hospitality leaders, and transport officials to discuss measures to combat spiking. This meeting comes alongside the government’s pledge to make spiking a specific criminal offense, aiming to send a clear message about its seriousness and encourage more victims to come forward.
Speaking at the meeting, Starmer emphasized the urgency of tackling spiking, describing it as a “pernicious and cowardly act.” The goal, he said, is to stop women from being targeted and to ensure that perpetrators face justice.
Calls for Clearer Legislation on Spiking
Although spiking is already illegal, campaigners have long argued for it to become a distinct criminal offense. This change could increase reporting rates, strengthen public awareness, and act as a deterrent.
Labour has reiterated its commitment to this legislation, but no specific timeline has been given. Starmer explained that defining spiking as a specific offense could create clearer pathways for public campaigns and law enforcement, helping to protect victims and hold offenders accountable.
Collaboration Between Police, Hospitality, and Transport
At the recent Downing Street meeting, stakeholders shared best practices to reduce incidents of spiking. Police forces are trialing measures such as deploying plainclothes officers in nightlife areas to spot predatory behavior.
British Transport Police emphasized their 61016 text-reporting service, which enables people to discreetly report harassment on trains. Chief Constable Lucy D’Orsi highlighted its usefulness for both victims and bystanders, urging the public to step in when they see someone at risk.
Building Awareness Through Training and Reporting
The government has announced plans to train 10,000 bar staff across the country to identify and respond to spiking incidents. This training will be piloted in December and rolled out more widely by March 2025.
Kate Nicholls, CEO of UK Hospitality, welcomed the initiative, emphasizing that it equips bar and door staff with the skills to detect spiking, support victims, and help law enforcement gather evidence. “We are committed to working with the government to roll this out at pace,” she said.
A Personal Commitment to Ending Violence Against Women
Starmer has described the government’s commitment to halving violence against women and girls over the next decade as a deeply personal priority. Building trust among victims of spiking and improving the response from authorities are seen as key steps toward achieving this goal.
“This crime is underreported and under-supported,” Starmer acknowledged. “We must shift that dynamic.”
How the Public Can Support Victims of Spiking
The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) advises anyone who suspects their friend has been spiked to stay with them, inform venue staff, and never let them go home alone or leave with a stranger. Reporting incidents online, via the 101 number, or through 999 in emergencies is also encouraged.
As the issue of spiking gains traction at the highest levels of government, these measures aim to make public spaces safer and foster confidence among victims. With coordinated action between the public, hospitality staff, and law enforcement, there is hope that the fight against spiking can create lasting change.
